The Maharashtra government has cleared a set of major infrastructure initiatives, including the Mumbai Metro Line 5A project, financial support for key expressways in Vidarbha, and preparations for the 2027 Nashik Trimbakeshwar Simhastha Kumbh Mela.
The approvals were finalised during a meeting of the Cabinet Sub-Committee on Infrastructure Development, chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis at Mantralaya. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and senior officials were also present.
A significant highlight is the sanction of ₹18,130.55 crore for Mumbai Metro Line 5A, covering both Phase 1 and Phase 2. The proposed corridor will extend 34.21 km with 19 stations, linking key locations across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. The first phase will run between Kapurbawdi and Dhamankar Naka, while the second phase will stretch from Dhamankar Naka to Durgadi, with further connectivity planned up to Kalyan and Ulhasnagar.
Officials estimate that nearly 6.9 million residents in Thane, Bhiwandi, Kalyan and Ulhasnagar will benefit from the corridor, with travel time expected to drop by 40–50 percent. The Chief Minister has directed departments to expedite approvals from central authorities to avoid delays.
In Vidarbha, the government has approved raising funds through Housing and Urban Development Corporation to facilitate land acquisition for three expressways: Nagpur-Gondia, Bhandara-Gadchiroli and Nagpur-Chandrapur. These projects are aimed at strengthening regional connectivity and boosting industrial growth.
Additionally, ₹1,063 crore has been allocated for Phase 2 infrastructure works for the Nashik Trimbakeshwar Simhastha Kumbh Mela in 2027. The funds will support improvements in civic amenities such as water supply, power, healthcare, waste management, parking, and a central control system to manage the large influx of visitors.
Authorities have been instructed to adhere to timelines and ensure coordinated execution across departments.
Source: Mid-day
